Gait Analysis of a Lateral-Pivot Design Total Knee Replacement

Previous motion analysis studies have demonstrated excellent ability to distinguish subtle differences in gait between normal subjects and those suffering from arthritis. With proper techniques and analysis differences between osteoarthritis patient groups can be distinguished. Previous research has indicated that subjects who received a single-radius design total knee replacement have superior gait performance that those who received a multi-radius design total knee replacement. The DJO Global Empowr PS Knee System is a single-radius lateral pivot design. This design should achieve reproducible more natural knee function and improved patient outcomes and satisfaction. A motion analysis laboratory will be used to collect gait data from patients who are going to receive a Empowr PS knee device and also from age-matched control subjects. These data will be compared with data previously collected from patients who received Stryker Triathlon devices, Biomet Vanguard devices and age-matched healthy control subjects.